Published on May 11, 2026
If you’re traveling to Mexico, your phone is an essential travel companion. Here are some helpful hints to get the most out of your phone while in Mexico and avoid surprise charges when you’re back stateside.
Can I use my phone in Mexico?
In most cases you can use your phone in Mexico. Most wireless carriers offer service that allows customers to make calls, send texts, and use data while traveling in Mexico.
Can I use my phone in Mexico if I am on a Cricket Wireless plan?
Yes, you can use your device while travelling in Mexico, regardless of which Cricket Wireless plan you have or what device you use. Unlimited text, calling and data in Mexico is included on our Smart Unlimited™ and Supreme Unlimited plans.
Will I be charged extra for calling from Mexico?
It depends on your wireless carrier, plan and strategy. Some plans include calling, texting, and data use in Mexico at no extra charge, while others may require you to add an international roaming feature or pay daily or per-use rates. Before you leave, double-check if:
- International roaming is included in your plan
- You need a physical SIM card (pSIM) or electronic SIM (eSIM)
- Your device has Wi-Fi calling
- If your data usage limits change while in Mexico
Will I be charged extra for calling from Mexico if I’m on a Cricket Wireless plan?
If you are on a Cricket Wireless Smart Unlimited Plan™ or Supreme Unlimited plan, unlimited texts, calls and data is included in your plan. You don’t need to add an international roaming option to your plan or use a third-party local SIM card to call from Mexico.
What is international roaming?
International roaming is a service that allows your phone to connect to another carrier’s network when you’re outside the U.S. When you’re traveling in Mexico, your carrier may partner with a local network so you can:
- Make and receive calls
- Send and receive texts
- Use mobile data
Does international roaming cost extra?
It depends on your plan. In some cases, international roaming is either included with your wireless plan or available as an add-on feature. Some carriers offer:
- Monthly international plans
- Daily travel passes
- Pay-per-use options
Because pricing structures vary, it’s a good idea to compare your options before your trip. If you’ll only be in Mexico for a short time, a daily plan may make sense. For longer stays, a monthly option could be more cost-effective.
What is Cricket Passport™?
Traveling to another country besides Mexico or Canada? Cricket Passport™ could be an option for you. Cricket Passport™ is a feature you can add for international roaming. You can use your phone while traveling outside the U.S., Canada and Mexico by adding Cricket Passport™, available as a day pass or a five-day option.
Do I need Cricket Passport™ to call from Mexico?
No. Calling from Mexico and Canada is included on the Cricket Wireless Smart Unlimited™ and Supreme Unlimited plans. Cricket Passport™ is used when travelling in countries besides Canada and Mexico.
What is a SIM card?
A SIM card is a small chip in your phone that securely connects your device to your mobile network, so you can make calls, send texts, and use data. Connecting to a local carrier via SIM card is an option while in Mexico but there are a few factors that determine whether or not it’s the best value for you.
Do I need a local SIM card (pSIM) while in Mexico?
There are some pros and cons of getting a physical SIM card (pSIM) from a local carrier while in Mexico.
Using a local pSIM card can be a viable option if:
- Your phone is “unlocked” - meaning it’s able to connect to another carrier
- You expect to use a lot of data
- It’s less than the cost of adding an international roaming feature
Some disadvantages of buying a local SIM include:
- A physical SIM card can be lost or damaged
- You might not need a SIM if you already have international roaming
- You may need to manage a temporary new number
Do I need a local SIM card while in Mexico if I’m on a Cricket Wireless plan?
No. Our Smart Unlimited™ and Supreme Unlimited plans include unlimited text, calls and data while travelling in Mexico. Your current SIM card will work, and you’ll be able to keep your number and carrier.
What is an eSIM?
Using an eSIM may be a more convenient and cost-effective option if you’re travelling in Mexico. There’s no need to swap out a physical SIM card (pSIM) and in most cases, you can keep your number and network. This makes it easier to have your long-distance strategy mapped out before you go. Check to see if your device supports eSIM.
What is Wi-Fi calling?
Wi-Fi calling is a feature that allows you to make and receive calls over a Wi-Fi connection instead of a cellular network. It can be especially helpful when cellular coverage is weak or when you want to stay connected without relying as heavily on roaming. Many travelers use Wi-Fi calling in hotels, airports, or other locations with secure internet access.
Does Wi-Fi calling save me money?
It can, but it depends on your carrier and plan. In some cases, Wi-Fi calling may help reduce roaming usage by routing calls over Wi-Fi instead of a mobile network. However, billing treatment can vary.
Before relying on Wi-Fi calling to save money, confirm:
- Wi-Fi calling is available on your device
- How calls are billed when you’re outside the U.S.
- Whether texting and data are affected
Will I get charged if I go over my data limit?
If your plan ncludes a set amount of data for use in Mexico, going over that limit could result in extra charges, reduced speeds, or temporary restrictions. Data usage fees can be tricky to monitor, so make sure you make an accurate assessment of your data usage before you go. But a few easy, money-saving habits can pay dividends down the line.
To avoid unexpected usage:
- Monitor your data usage while traveling
- Use Wi-Fi whenever possible
- Download maps, playlists, and content before your trip
- Turn off background app refresh for nonessential apps
Also remember streaming video, uploading photos, and using navigation apps frequently can all increase your data use more quickly than expected.
Why should I get a Cricket Wireless plan before traveling to Mexico?
Cricket Wireless offers several wireless plans* tailor made for calling from Mexico. Unlike many other carriers, there’s no need to add international roaming or get a physical sim card that could be lost or damaged.
| Cricket Wireless plan | Local SIM card |
| No physical card needed |
Physical card needed |
| Unlimited talk, text and data Speeds may be slowed if the network is busy. International
roaming may be at 2G speeds. |
Usually preset data limits |
| Keep your number and carrier |
You may have to manage a temporary number |
Best for extended trips where you’ll rely on texting and streaming |
|
Before your trip to Mexico - checklist
Now that you have your travel documents, your suitcase and your favorite travel pillow, planning your wireless strategy should be your next priority. Check off the pointers on this list before you go for a worry-free trip.- Review your wireless plan and confirm what is included in Mexico
- Check if international roaming is already enabled
- Learn your carrier’s rates for calls, texts, and data in Mexico
- Decide whether a travel pass, local SIM, or eSIM makes the most sense for your trip
- Use Wi-Fi calling if it’s available
- Track your data usage throughout your trip